War Crimes Against Ukrainian Children: UN Secretary-General Includes Russia in the 'List of Shame'.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted the sharp increase in gross violations of children's rights during armed conflicts, particularly due to the actions of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, and included the Russian army in the 'list of shame'. This is indicated in Guterres' annual report 'Children and Armed Conflict', which was presented at a UN Security Council meeting by Virginia Gamba.

Significant increases in such violations have been observed in various countries, including Lebanon (545%), Mozambique (525%), Haiti (490%), and others. Even in Ukraine, this figure has risen by 105%. Regarding the conflict in eastern Ukraine, Guterres pointed to abductions, killings, and injuries to children, as well as attacks on schools and hospitals.

'I am deeply concerned about the sharp increase in gross violations against children in Ukraine, including the killing and maiming of children, as well as attacks on schools and hospitals,'

noted the UN Secretary-General.

During the reporting period (2024-2025), the killing of 94 and injury of 577 children was documented, for which the Russian armed forces and affiliated groups are held responsible. Numerous attacks on schools and hospitals have also been recorded, and some Ukrainian children taken to Russia are still missing.

'I urgently call on the Russian Federation to cooperate with the UN to return Ukrainian children and reunite them with their families and/or guardians,'

emphasized Guterres.

In this regard, the Russian Federation has again been included in the 'list of shame', alongside other countries that systematically violate children's rights. This list also includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and others.

Reports of increasing gross violations of children's rights in armed conflict conditions confirm the seriousness of the problem and the need for immediate action to protect young citizens in wartime. It is important for the international community to promote conflict resolution and protect the most vulnerable participants in hostilities.

Guterres' report presented is a troubling witness to the worsening situation regarding children's rights during armed conflicts. The increase in violations and violence against the most vulnerable participants in hostilities is a serious issue that requires immediate and effective measures to protect and ensure the safety of these children. The international community has taken this report on board and demands action to ensure the safety and protection of children's rights during conflicts worldwide.